Sex Differences in the Treatment of Uveal Melanoma in a Group of 1336 Patients

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the sex differences in the treatment of uveal melanoma (UM) in a group of 1336 patients from a national referral center during the period 2018-2021. (2) Materials and Methods: The study was designed in a retrospective manner. A total of 1336 patients who were newly diagnosed with UM at the Department of Ophthalmology and Ophthalmic Oncology, Jagiellonian University Collegium Medicum, Krakow, Poland, between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2021, were included in the study. The demographic and clinical data were compiled, including the sex of patients and the treatment methods. (3) Results: In total, 1336 patients with ocular melanoma were identified, including 726 women (54.34%) and 610 men (45.66%). A total of 49.70% of tumors were localized in the right eye and 50.30% in the left eye. UMs were localized statistically significantly more frequently posterior to the equator of the eye globe in men than in women (79.67% vs. 74.10%, Chi^2 Pearson test p = 0.035). Tumors tended to be larger in men, but this difference was not clinically significant. Men were enucleated more often than women (23.44% vs. 18.04%, Chi^2 Pearson test p = 0.015). (4) Conclusions: Statistically significant sex differences were found in the treatment of uveal melanoma in a national referral center in Poland, with men being enucleated more often than women.

Inflammatory Markers and Episodic Memory Functioning in Depressive Disorders

Depression is a psychiatric disorder that is observed to be associated with changes in levels of inflammatory markers and deterioration in cognitive functioning. Here, we combined the biochemical tests of IL-1 and IL-6 serum levels and the expressions of genes encoding these interleukins with cognitive assessment of episodic memories, and examined 50 depressed patients and 37 healthy participants. Results confirmed increased serum levels of IL-1 and IL-6 in the study group when compared to healthy volunteers. Moreover, episodic memory, in terms of answering structured questions (but not free recollection of past events) deteriorated among depressed patients. The described parameters neither correlated with each other nor with the two measures of severity of depression—HDRS score and years of psychiatric treatment. Although both observed dysfunctions—cognitive and immune—among depressed patients are confirmed, they do not seem to covary in the present study.

Major Depression and Onset of Frontotemporal Dementia

PURPOSE

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is still a clinical challenge with the highest rate of misdiagnosis and poor outcome. The pathogenetic relationship between depression and neurodegeneration remains unclear. This study evaluated depression prevalence before FTD diagnosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The aim was to assess the prevalence and impact of depression on FTD diagnostic process. The clinical characteristics of 72 patients hospitalized in Department of Affective and Psychotic Disorders Medical University of Lodz between 2010 and 2020 with final diagnosis FTD were analyzed. The data referring to first psychiatric diagnosis, time from first psychopathological symptoms to clarification of FTD diagnosis were collected. The patients who did not undergo full neuropsychiatric verification were excluded from the analysis.

RESULTS

About 69% of patients had other concomitant diagnosis of mental disorders which was made prior to FTD diagnosis. Among this subsample, 71% revealed depression diagnosis with at least moderate severity. The patients whose first diagnosis was psychotic depression revealed the longest period from the appearance of the first psychopathological symptoms to the diagnosis of FTD in comparison to the subsample with other psychiatric diagnosis (p=0.034; mean 4.33±3.28 years vs mean 2.68±1.39 years).

CONCLUSION

The severe depressive symptoms in older age may reflect the development of neurodegeneration before full-blown frontotemporal dementia symptomatology. We hypothesized that psychotic depression is a predictor of FTD. Further investigations in this field are required.

Suicide Risk Factors among Polish Adults Aged 65 or Older in 2000-2018 Compared with Selected Countries Worldwide

The aim of this study was to determine the tendencies of change in suicide frequency among Polish adults aged 65 or older, recognize the importance of available socio-demographic data (age, sex, marital status, and education attainment level) and provide an in-depth psychological understanding of the obtained results. We analysed the influence of education and marital status on suicide risk in the Polish adult population aged 65 or older, which has not been previously presented in publications related to the Central Statistical Office or any other research. Our results indicated that male adults aged 65 or older that were single or divorced and with a lower education had a higher risk of death by suicide. In female adults aged 65 or older, those with higher education and who were divorced or married had a higher risk of fatal suicide behaviour meanwhile, single women and widows had a lower risk. The dominant method of suicide among Polish older adults was suicide by hanging, regardless of sex; female older adults were more likely to die by suicide by poisoning or jumping from a height, and male older adults were more likely to die by shooting with a firearm. Although data from recent years highlights a downward trend for suicide rates in Polish older adults, the problem cannot be considered solved.

The Relationship Between Antipsychotic Treatment and Plasma β-Endorphin Concentration in Patients with Schizophrenia

OBJECTIVE

Some studies indicate the presence of elevated opioid levels in cases of schizophrenia and their relationship with negative symptoms. The pathogenesis of schizophrenia may be associated with an imbalance in the modulatory effect of opioids on the dopaminergic system. The aim of the study was to identify the association between β-endorphin (BE) concentration and the outcome of short-term schizophrenia treatment.

METHODS

We examined 49 patients hospitalized due to exacerbation of schizophrenia symptoms and 47 controls without schizophrenia. The severity of psychopathological symptoms was evaluated using Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) at the onset of hospitalization, and after four, six and ten weeks of treatment. Patients were classified into negative (NEG) and mixed (M) psychopathological subtypes according to the PANSS composite index. Β-endorphin (BE) plasma concentrations were assessed in all participants; in patients on inclusion to the study and after six weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

The patients with schizophrenia demonstrated higher BE levels than controls. During six-week antipsychotic treatment, BE concentration significantly increased in both NEG (p=0.000) and M (p=0.007), and positive symptoms were effectively reduced. In the NEG group, the prevalence of negative symptoms decreased only transiently and returned to approximately baseline values after 10 weeks (p=0.268). In the M patients, the prevalence of negative symptoms increased gradually (p=0.001), with more severe positive and, notably, negative symptoms correlating with higher BE2 concentrations at the 10-week assessment (R= 0.47, p= 0.0135 vs R= 0.74, p=0.0000). In both NEG and M, a greater rise in BE2 level correlated with a lower composite index during treatment.

CONCLUSION

Patients with schizophrenia demonstrate higher BE levels compared to controls. These changes in BE concentration during antipsychotic treatment could reflect the interaction between dopaminergic transmission and endogenous opioids. A rise in BE level following effective antipsychotic therapy could be a potential predictor of persisting negative symptoms.

Topical Treatment of Elevated Intraocular Pressure in Patients with Graves' Orbitopathy

Purpose: In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of topical hypotensive treatment and/or systemic corticosteroids therapy in patients with elevated intraocular pressure and Graves’ orbitopathy (GO). Methods: We included 172 eyes in 86 individuals with duration of GO ≥ 3 months, intraocular pressure in either eye ≥ 25.0 mmHg, and GO ranked ≥ 3 at least in one eye in modified CAS form. The study subjects were divided into three treatment subgroups: subgroup I was administered latanoprost once a day; subgroup II was administered a combined preparation of brimonidine and timolol BID; subgroup III was the control group, not receiving any topical hypotensive treatment. All the study participants received systemic treatment, intravenous corticosteroid therapy at the same dose, according to the European Group of Graves’ Orbitopathy (EUGOGO) guideline. Results: On the final visit, the mean IOP value was significantly lower in all treatment subgroups compared to the initial values. In both subgroups receiving topical treatment, the IOP reduction was higher than in the control group receiving systemic corticosteroids only. However, the latanoprost eye drops decreased intraocular pressure more effectively than drops containing brimonidine and timolol. Conclusion: Topical ocular hypotensive treatment is effective in reducing intraocular pressure in GO and decreases intraocular pressure more effectively than systemic corticosteroid therapy alone.

Plasma β-Endorphin Concentration and Antipsychotic Treatment Outcome in Schizophrenia: 1-Year Follow-Up

BACKGROUND Increased levels of endogenous opioids have been observed in patients with schizophrenia; however, the influence of these endogenous opioids on the biology of schizophrenia remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of beta-endorphin (BE) on the course of schizophrenia and risk of relapse. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included 25 patients hospitalized with schizophrenia and 47 controls. Their symptoms were evaluated using Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and composite index at five points: at the onset of hospitalization; after 4, 6 and 10 weeks of treatment; and after 12 months. ß-endorphin plasma concentrations were assessed in patients at study enrollment and after 6 weeks of treatment. Data regarding rehospitalization during follow-up were also collected. RESULTS Patients had higher BE concentration than controls at study enrollment (P=0.002) and after 6 weeks (P=0.000). BE levels increased during treatment (mean 0.538ng/mL vs. mean 0.624 ng/mL; P=0.007). No correlation was found between BE concentration and PANSS subscale score at any stage of the study. A higher BE level at study enrollment was related to a predominance of negative symptoms after 1 year, measured with composite index (R=-0.404; P=0.045). Patients who were later hospitalized again were significantly more likely to demonstrate an increase in BE levels over 6 weeks (P=0.001). CONCLUSIONS Individuals with schizophrenia demonstrated higher BE concentrations than healthy controls; this tendency was particularly apparent in those affected by negative symptoms. The imbalance in the endogenous opioid system might adversely alter the course of disease and predispose patients to persistence of negative symptoms, despite antipsychotic treatment.

Treatment of heart failure in the elderly in Poland. The results of the Polish part of EURObservational Research Programme: The Heart Failure Pilot Survey

BACKGROUND

Pharmacotherapy remains the fundamental method of treating heart failure (HF). Treatment of the elderly is less based on the principles of evidence-based medicine (EBM) and doses do not reach the prescribed value.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to identify any distinct treatment of HF in the elderly compared to those under 65 years of age.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This study describes the Polish part of the EURObservational Research Programme: The Heart Failure Pilot Survey (ESC-HF Pilot). Eligibility to the program was limited to people with HF in 26 centers in Poland. After the first phase, more data was collected at 3 and 12 months. It covered a total of 893 people.

RESULTS

Treatment of HF is conducted largely in accordance with the applicable guidelines. The percentage of people over 65 years of age who use angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin-II receptor blockers (ACE-I/ARB), β-blockers and mineralocorticoid-antagonists remains high. Also, during the 12-month follow-up the frequency of the use of β-blockers did not decrease, and a decrease in the number subjects treated with ACE-I was compensated by increasing percentage of the use of ARB. A major problem also seems to be the appropriate treatment to prevent thromboembolic complications in the case of coexistence of atrial fibrillation (AF). There is a large group of older people who do not receive proper anticoagulation.

CONCLUSIONS

The study showed the existence of differences in the treatment of HF in the elderly. It partly does not proceed in accordance with the guidelines, especially in the presence of multiple comorbidities.

The Relationship Between Course of Illness and β-Endorphin Plasma Levels in Patients with Schizophrenia

OBJECTIVE

Extensive investigations have been conducted into predictors of schizophrenia outcome. The heterogeneity of the illness implies that many factors should be taken into account. Some studies have reported the relationship between increased β-endorphin concentration and predominant negative symptoms.

METHODS

We included 77 outpatients with schizophrenia and 74 healthy controls. Data referring to duration and course of illness, hospitalization number and treatment were collected on the basis of clinical interviews and medical documentation analysis. The β-endorphin concentrations were assessed once in all participants, at the onset of the study.

RESULTS

A chronic course of illness was found in 44 of the 77 schizophrenics. Patients with schizophrenia, especially those with a chronic course of illness, revealed significantly higher β-endorphin concentrations than those with an episodic course and controls (mean 29.70 vs 19.86 pmol/L; p=0.0001). Increased levels of β-endorphin were related to longer duration of illness (R=0.294, p=0.009) and frequent psychiatric hospitalization (R=0.346, p=-0.002).

CONCLUSION

Endorphins may be potential biological predictors of persistent negative symptoms and final outcome in schizophrenia.

Odor perception and hedonics in chronic schizophrenia and in first episode psychosis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The study evaluated olfactory performance and pleasantness rating of odors in patients with first episode psychosis (FEP) and chronic schizophrenia (SCH) with regard to the severity of psychopathological symptoms and plasma β-endorphin concentration.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty patients with FEP, 27 with SCH and 29 healthy individuals, were recruited to the research . The University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), subjective odor hedonic judgment and plasma levels of β-endorphin (BE) assay were performed in all participants.

RESULTS

Individuals with SCH revealed higher BE concentration than other study groups (P=0.000). All patients identified pleasant odors poorer than controls, however, SCH made more identification errors (P=0.000) than those with FEP. Moreover, participants with FEP rated pleasant odors as more pleasant than individuals with chronic schizophrenia and healthy controls (P=0.009). Nevertheless, higher β-endorphin level was related with lower scores in pleasant odor identification (Rs=-0.452; P=0.046) and more severe psychotic symptoms in FEP sample. Chronic schizophrenia patients did not demonstrate any relationship between symptom severity, odor identification performance and β-endorphin concentration. No relationship was found between BE concentration and hedonic judgment of the presented odors among all study groups. Chronically ill subjects identified odors significantly more poorly than those with first episode psychosis. Deficits in identifying pleasant odors might not be the only potential risk factor for undergoing chronic, recurrent schizophrenia. All patients subjectively overrated pleasant odors. Those with SCH and more severe negative symptoms made significantly more identification errors.

CONCLUSION

The endogenous morphine system deregulation is observed in first episode psychosis as well as in chronic schizophrenia. In first episode schizophrenia higher beta-endorphin concentration is related to pleasant odor identification deficit.

Longevity and cardiovascular mortality of Polish elite football players

BACKGROUND

Despite wide popularity of football, there is a paucity of scientific evidence explaining the relationship between being a competitive footballer and life expectancy.

AIM

The study analyses and compares cause-specific mortality of Polish male elite footballers and the general Polish male population.

METHODS

Data regarding of 455 elite footballers who died between 1990 and 2015 were retrospectively analysed. The cause of death was established based on the official data from the Polish Central Statistical Office. The control group consisted of men from the general male population in Poland who died in the sampled period at the age of 25 years or more.

RESULTS

The mean age at death turned out to be higher for footballers than controls (70.2 vs. 67.4 years). Cardiovascular diseases were a more common cause of death among footballers than in the general male population, both in the subgroup of subjects who died under the age of 65 years and in those who were at least 65 years old at the time of death (46.9% vs. 32.3% and 61.3% vs. 53.3%, respectively). A detailed analysis of cause-specific cardiovascular mortality revealed that acute myocardial infarction caused more deaths (odds ratio [OR] 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.68) and hypertensive disease caused less deaths (OR 0.20; 95% CI 0.05-0.79) among athletes than in the general male population. A trend analysis has shown that the level of cardiovascular mortality among footballers is falling.

CONCLUSIONS

The study results indicate excess cardiovascular mortality among Polish elite footballers.

Aspartic acid racemization of root dentin used for dental age estimation in a Polish population sample

Precise age determination of unidentified bodies and human remains is one of the essential tasks of forensic science. The aim of this study was to assess the applicability of using the enantiomeric composition of aspartic acid racemization in root and crown dentin for dental age estimation using a Polish population sample. Coronal and root dentin from four teeth groups from the mandible were studied using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. The results demonstrated a very high correlation between the chronological age and enantiomeric composition in both of the dentin samples. Individual linear equations of root dentin with correlation coefficients between 0.96 and 0.98 and a standard estimation error of ±2.95–4.84 years validated the application of aspartic acid racemization as a significant practical contribution to everyday forensic medical practice. Discrepancies in methodological aspects and modifications that simplify the protocol are presented.

Overrated hedonic judgment of odors in patients with schizophrenia

AIMS

The odor identification ability and its hedonic judgment in patients with schizophrenia were evaluated in the study. The association between olfactory performance and negative symptoms and β-endorphin concentration was also analyzed.

METHODS

Study groups consisted of 23 patients with negative symptoms (PN) and 25 without predominant negative symptoms (PP) and 21 healthy individuals. The University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test, odor hedonic evaluation, and plasma concentrations of β-endorphin assay in all participants were performed.

RESULTS

PN perceived the poorer olfactory identification; nevertheless, they evaluated unpleasant odors as more pleasant than PP and controls. Beta-endorphin concentration was significantly higher among PN than in other study groups. No association was observed between β-endorphin and odors identification and odor hedonic judgment among all study groups.

CONCLUSIONS

There is potential relationship between increased β-endorphin concentration and severity of negative symptoms. Patients with predominant negative symptoms tend to evaluate odors as significantly more pleasant. Individuals with this subtype of schizophrenia might present specific, altered pattern of smell identification and hedonic judgment. Presumably, β-endorphin has no direct influence on olfactory identification performance and hedonic judgment in schizophrenia.

Changes in the lipid profile of patients with asymptomatic and symptomatic helicobacter pylori infection

OBJECTIVE

Introduction: Helicobacterpylori ( H. pylori) infection often coexists with coronary artery disease, but the causal relationship is not clear as yet. The aim: to assess the lipidogram of patients with asymptomatic and symptomatic H. pylori infection.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Material and methods: The study included 30 healthy subjects (group I), 40 patients with asymptomatic (group II) and 40 with symptomatic (group III) H. pylori infection. The diagnosis of infection was based on the results of the urea breath test (13C-UBT) and the concentration of specific IgG antibodies. Serum concentration of: total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein (LDL) fraction, high density lipoprotein fraction (HDL), non-HDL cholesterol (TC-LDL) and triglycerides (TG) were tested.

RESULTS

Results:Mean total cholesterol concentration was in group I-170,1±14,9 mg/dl, in group II - 173,0±13,1 mg/dl (>0,05), in group III - 192,9±20,1 mg/dl (<0,001). The concentration of LDL fraction was in group I - 111,6±12,5 mg/dl, in group II - 130,2±13,1 mg/dl (<0,001) and in group III-151,3±14,6 mg/dl (<0,001). The concentration of HDL fraction was in group I - 55,1±7,1 mg/dl, in group II-40,7±6,4 mg/dl (<0,001), in group III-40,0±4,9 mg/dl (<0,001). The concentration of non-HDL (TC-HDL) was in group I - 114,5±12,4 mg/dl, in group II - 132,2±13,8 mg/dl (<0,001), in group III - 152,8±15,6 mg/dl (<0,001). Triglycerides were in group I-133,3±24,2 mg/dl, in group II - 132,1±23,4 mg/dl (>0.05), in group III - 154,75±17,2 mg/dl (<0,001).Moreover, in group III a positive correlation was demonstrated between total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, non-HDL cholesterol and 13C-UBT.

CONCLUSION

Conclusion: In H.pylori-infected patients there are observed changes in the lipidogram, particularly adverse ones in the proportion of LDL to HDL.

Location of the ischemic focus in rehabilitated stroke patients with impairment of executive functions

BACKGROUND

Executive dysfunctions are part of the clinical symptoms of a stroke and can inhibit the process of rehabilitation. Patients with impaired executive functions may manifest aggression, impulsiveness, impaired thinking and planning.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of the ischemic focus location on the effectiveness of physiotherapy in improving the executive functions in patients after stroke.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Ninety patients after unilateral ischemic cerebral stroke were studied. We studied 45 patients treated at the Department of Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine of the WAM University Hospital of Lodz for 5 weeks. The rehabilitation program included: kinesitherapy, physiotherapy, speech therapy, psychological consultations and psychotherapy. The control group consisted of patients who were waiting for admission to the Department of Rehabilitation. The patients in both groups were divided into three subgroups with different locations of stroke: front, back and subcortical. Executive functions were measured by the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), the trail making test (TMT - A, TMT - B), the verbal fluency test (VFT).

RESULTS

Patients rehabilitated in the hospital with the front and subcortical lesion location reported improvement in executive functions in terms of a greater number of the analyzed indicators of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) than those with the back lesion location. Patients rehabilitated at home with the subcortical lesion location did not experience a significant improvement in executive functions in any of the analyzed indicators of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). Most of the indicators, with the exception of the total errors of Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and TMT B, have not been modified by the location of stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

Executive dysfunction occurs not only in patients with an anterior location of the stroke, but also in the posterior and subcortical locations. Patients with a subcortical location of the stroke require more treatment to mitigate the dysfunction.

Pharmacist’s age affect information provided for pharmacy clients about generic substitution

Introduction. According to WHO, increase in usage of generic drugs may be one of the ways to reduce costs of healthcare systems around the world. However, according to scientific data, physicians and pharmacists doubt in their effectiveness – the reason for that is not well known. Due to this fact an evidence of factors affecting their opinion is being searched for. Aim. The aim of this study was to assess whether correlation exist between the age of pharmacist and the way information about generic drugs is provided.Material and Methods. This was a questionnaire-based study. Especially prepared questionnaire was made available to pharmacists of Lodzkie province. Survey was conducted in Lodz (81.8%) and other towns of lodzkie province.Results. One hundred and forty eight pharmacists working in Lodzkie province have answered the questionnaire (84.5% women and 13.5% men, aged 23–59, working mainly in private pharmacies – 89.1%). Most of pharmacists (47; 31.8%) younger than 35 years provided information about generic drugs, after being asked about it. Most of pharmacists older than 35 years had given information before patients asked them about it. Correlation analysis revealed that strong statistically significant correlation between pharmacist’s age and the moment when he provides an information about generic drugs exist (P < 0.05).Conclusions. Age of pharmacists affect their commitment to provide information about generic drugs for pharmacy clients.

Olfactory identification in patients with schizophrenia - the influence of β-endorphin and calcitonin gene-related peptide concentrations

BACKGROUND

The relationship between the olfactory system and emotional processing is an area of growing interest in schizophrenia research. Both the orbitofrontal cortex and amygdala are involved in the processing of olfactory information, and olfactory deficits may be also influenced by endogenous opioids and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which is probably involved in dopaminergic transmission. However, the relationship between endorphins and dopaminergic transmission has not been fully explored.

METHODS

Odor identification performance and valence interaction was evaluated among 50 schizophrenic patients and 50 controls. Schizophrenia symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). All study participants were subjected to the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), blood β-endorphin (BE) and CGRP measurement.

RESULTS

Insignificantly higher BE concentrations were observed in the patient group, while significantly higher UPSIT scores were seen in controls (mean UPSIT 32.48 vs 26.82). The patients demonstrated significantly more identification errors for pleasant (P=0.000) and neutral (P=0.055) odors than for unpleasant odors. Patients with higher BE concentrations made more identification errors concerning pleasant (R_s=-0.292; P=0.04) and neutral odors (R_s=-0.331; P=0.019). Although the concentration of CGRP was significantly higher in the patient sample (P<0.001), no relationship was observed between concentration and UPSIT performance. A strong negative correlation was observed between PANSS N score and UPSIT total score (R_s=-0.646; P=0.000), between PANSS N score and identification by valence for pleasant and neutral odors (UPSIT n/16: R_s=-0.450, P=0.001; UPSIT n/15: R_s=-0.586, P=0.000), and a weak negative correlation between PANSS N score and identification of unpleasant odors (UPSIT n/9: R_s=-0.325, P=0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

Schizophrenic patients present a unique pattern of smell identification characterized by aberrant hedonic ratings for pleasant odors but not unpleasant ones. Individuals with predominant negative symptoms and higher BE concentrations are most able to identify negative odors.

The relationship between physical activity level and selected cardiovascular risk factors and mortality of males ≤ 50 years in Poland - the results of follow-up of participants of National Multicenter Health Survey WOBASZ

OBJECTIVES

The role of leisure-time physical activity in reducing all-cause and cardiovascular mortality is well explored. The knowledge on occupational and commuting physical activity continues to be ambiguous and misleading. The aim of the study is to assess the influence of different kinds of physical activity on cardiovascular mortality risk in men.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data analysis on physical activity level and other selected cardiovascular risk factors acquired from 3577 men in the age between 50-80 years who participated in the National Multicenter Health Survey WOBASZ (Wieloośrodkowe Ogólnopolskie Badanie Stanu Zdrowia), Poland (2003-2005) was linked with male mortality in 2004-2009. Data about causes of deaths were obtained from the Central Statistical Office and the Population Electronic Register.

RESULTS

Among males aged 50-59 years, the strongest risk factor was living in large settlements and provincial capitals as a place of residence and the most protective factor was occupational physical activity. In the age group 60-69 years and 70-80 years, the strongest protective effect was observed for leisure-time physical activity. In men aged between 70-80 years (unlike in the 50-59 years age group), the protective effect of large settlements and provincial capitals as a place of residence was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Occupational physical activity significantly reduced cardiovascular mortality in men aged 50-69 years, while for leisure-time activity the positive effect was observed in age group 60-69 years and 70-80 years. On the other hand, for the inhabitants of large settlements and provincial capitals, significantly higher risk of cardiovascular mortality in the age group 50-69 years and lower risk in the age group ≥ 70 years was noted, both in comparison with smaller places of residence.

Comparison of beta-endorphin and CGRP levels before and after treatment for severe schizophrenia

OBJECTIVES

Links between endorphins and dopaminergic transmission have not been fully explored in schizophrenia. Both endorphins excess and deficiency were postulated. CGRP is probably involved in dopaminergic transmission. The aim of this study was the evaluation of beta-endorphin (BE) and CGRP blood concentrations before and after treatment of severe schizophrenia.

METHODS

Seventy patients treated with various antipsychotics, with severe symptoms of schizophrenia (51 with positive symptoms, 19 with negative symptoms), 15 first-degree relatives, and 44 healthy controls were included in the study. BE and CGRP blood concentrations were measured during patients severe schizophrenia and in their stable mental state after treatment. The results were compared with relatives and controls.

RESULTS

BE and CGRP concentrations in patients with negative symptoms were higher than in relatives and in controls. BE levels in patients with positive symptoms were lower than in patients with negative symptoms (P<0.0000) and controls (P<0.0006). No significant changes in CGRP concentration were found in patient samples. CGRP levels in these samples were independent of treatment, but they were significantly higher than in relatives and controls. After the treatment, BE level decreased in patients with negative symptoms (P<0.0001) and increased in patients with positive symptoms (P<0.0000). No differences in BE concentration between patients in stable mental state, their relatives, and controls were found.

CONCLUSION

Effective antipsychotic treatment results in "normalization" of BE level. Specific changes in BE concentration could be involved in dopaminergic transmission and related to some symptoms of schizophrenia.

The effect of electromagnetic radiation emitted by display screens on cell oxygen metabolism - in vitro studies

INTRODUCTION

Research studies carried out for decades have not solved the problem of the effect of electromagnetic radiation of various frequency and strength on the human organism. Due to this fact, we decided to investigate the changes taking place in human blood platelets under the effect of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) emitted by LCD monitors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The changes of selected parameters of oxygen metabolism were measured, i.e. reactive oxygen species concentration, enzymatic activity of antioxidant defence proteins - superoxide dismutase (SOD-1) and catalase (CAT) - and malondialdehyde concentration (MDA). A suspension of human blood platelets was exposed to electromagnetic radiation of 1 kHz frequency and 150 V/m and 220 V/m intensity for 30 and 60 min. The level of changes of the selected parameters of oxidative stress was determined after the exposure and compared to the control samples (not exposed).

RESULTS

The measurements revealed an increase of the concentration of reactive oxygen species. The largest increase of ROS concentration vs. the control sample was observed after exposure to EMF of 220 V/m intensity for 60 min (from x = 54.64 to x = 72.92). The measurement of MDA concentration demonstrated a statistically significant increase after 30-min exposure to an EMF of 220 V/m intensity in relation to the initial values (from x = 3.18 to x = 4.41). The enzymatic activity of SOD-1 decreased after exposure (the most prominent change was observed after 60-min and 220 V/m intensity from x = 3556.41 to x = 1084.83). The most significant change in activity of catalase was observed after 60 min and 220 v/m exposure (from x = 6.28 to x = 4.15).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate that exposure to electromagnetic radiation of 1 kHz frequency and 150 V/m and 220 V/m intensity may cause adverse effects within blood platelets' oxygen metabolism and thus may lead to physiological dysfunction of the organism.

Inappropriate pattern of nutrient consumption and coexistent cardiometabolic disorders in elderly people from Poland

INTRODUCTION

Nutritional recommendations are aimed at, among others, reducing morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders, which are common in the aging population. Adherence to these recommendations allows not only to stop the progression of a disease but also to improve the overall health of elderly patients.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyze differences in nutrition of elderly patients, with emphasis on the implementation of nutritional recommendations both for healthy people and for patients with cardiometabolic disorders.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Based on a 24-hour recall questionnaire of 239 volunteers (mean age, 72 ±9.34 years) and using the Diet 5.0 software, we analyzed in detail the pattern of consumption of various nutrients.

RESULTS

Compared with the recommendations of the World Health Organization and cardiology associations, more than 90% of the population did not cover the demand for calcium, potassium, vitamin D, folic acid, and α-linolenic acid. The intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids, sodium, magnesium, fiber, water, and vitamin C was slightly higher. The appropriate intake was observed only in a diet of 15% to 40% of the subjects. The most significant differences were demonstrated for the coexisting diseases and the intake level of sodium, polyunsaturated fatty acids (particularly docosahexaenoic acid) vitamin C, iron, fiber, lauric acid, and sucrose. The diet of patients with hypercholesterolemia was the least deficient, while deficiencies were the most common in patients with a history of myocardial infarction, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Nutrition of geriatric patients is inadequate. Their diet is profoundly deficient in nutrients, and these deficiencies further deteriorate in the presence of cardiovascular or metabolic diseases. Our results indicate the need for education among elderly patients in terms of proper eating habits and, possibly, individual supplementation.

Pain perception in schizophrenia: influence of neuropeptides, cognitive disorders, and negative symptoms

OBJECTIVES

The causes and nature of insensitivity to pain in schizophrenia remain unknown. The role of endorphins and the association of cognitive dysfunction and negative symptoms are postulated.

METHODS

In this study, 43 patients with schizophrenia, five first-degree relatives, and 34 healthy controls were examined. Participants' plasma concentrations of substance P, β-endorphin, and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were assessed. In patients, the Trail-Making Test, the Color Reading Interference Test (Stroop test), and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale Negative Syndrome subscale (PANSS N) test were performed. We also evaluated pain threshold using nociceptive reflex (RTIII) testing.

RESULTS

The mean β-endorphin concentration was about 20% higher in patients than in healthy controls (P<0.05). CGRP concentrations were significantly higher in patients than in controls (5.34 ng/mL versus 4.16 ng/mL; P<0.01). Subjects treated with antipsychotic polytherapy had higher concentrations of CGRP than did patients treated with second-generation antipsychotic monotherapy (5.92 ng/mL versus 5.02 ng/mL; P<0.05). There were no correlations between any biochemical parameters and Trail-Making Test, Stroop test, and PANSS N scores. There were no differences in RTIII among study groups. Strong negative correlation (P<0.001) was found between PANSS N scores and subjective pain threshold on the right lower limb.

CONCLUSION

The insensitivity to pain in schizophrenia is a complex phenomenon that is probably not related to changes in nociceptive pathways. Increase in β-endorphin level may be related to this issue, but it is uncertain if such concentration ensures analgesic effect. It is unknown if patients with schizophrenia in fact experience less pain. Cognitive impairment and excess negative symptoms may strongly influence the patient's expression of pain.

The sound of a mobile phone ringing affects the complex reaction time of its owner

INTRODUCTION

Mobile phone conversation decreases the ability to concentrate and impairs the attention necessary to perform complex activities, such as driving a car. Does the ringing sound of a mobile phone affect the driver's ability to perform complex sensory-motor activities? We compared a subject's reaction time while performing a test either with a mobile phone ringing or without.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The examination was performed on a PC-based reaction time self-constructed system Reactor. The study group consisted of 42 healthy students. The protocol included instruction, control without phone and a proper session with subject's mobile phone ringing. The terms of the study were standardised.

RESULTS

There were significant differences (p < 0.001) in reaction time in control (597 ms), mobile (633 ms) and instruction session (673 ms). The differences in female subpopulation were also significant (p < 0.01). Women revealed the longest reaction time in instruction session (707 ms), were significantly quicker in mobile (657 ms, p < 0.01) and in control session (612 ms, p < 0.001). In men, the significant difference was recorded only between instruction (622 ms) and control session (573 ms, p < 0.01). The other differences were not significant (p > 0.08). Men proofed to complete significantly quicker than women in instruction (p < 0.01) and in mobile session (p < 0.05). Differences amongst the genders in control session was not significant (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained proofed the ringing of a phone exerts a significant influence on complex reaction time and quality of performed task.

A prospective study on different methods for the treatment of choroidal neovascularization. The efficacy of verteporfin photodynamic therapy, intravitreal bevacizumab and transpupillary thermotherapy in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration

Background

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT), intravitreal injections of bevacizumab (IVB) and transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Material/Methods

The study design was a prospective, interventional, comparative case series. Between December 2006 and March 2009, 426 eyes of 426 consecutive patients presenting with neovascular AMD were included into the study. Patients presented with subfoveal CNV predominantly classic, minimally classic, and occult with no classic component; lesion size less than 5000 μm in the greatest linear dimension, and the area of hemorrhages ≤1/3 were randomized to receive either PDT (group I) or IVB (group II) in a 1:1 ratio. Other patients with CNV were included into the group III and received TTT.

Results

One hundred eyes were treated with PDT. Mean baseline logMAR BCVA was 0.62 and final visual acuity decreased to 0.74 (p<0.05, Wilcoxon test); 104 eyes were treated with IVB. Mean baseline BCVA was 0.82 and final visual acuity increased to 0.79 (p>0.05, Wilcoxon test); 222 patients were treated with TTT. Mean baseline BCVA was 1.10 and final visual acuity decreased to 1.15 (p>0.05, Wilcoxon test). Among all eyes the average number of treatment sessions was 2.34 (SD 1.17).

Conclusions

Our study shows that IVB injections had the best efficacy in the improvement of final BCVA. However, both IVB and TTT demonstrated good stabilization of vision. Although after PDT final BCVA was significantly worse from baseline, it may also be beneficial for some patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

Functional polymorphism of the myeloperoxidase gene (G-463A) in depressive patients

Gałecki P, Florkowski A, Bobińska K, Śmigielski J, Bieńkiewicz M, Szemraj J. Functional polymorphism of the myeloperoxidase gene (G-463A) in depressive patients.

OBJECTIVE

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an enzyme involved in the production of hypochloric acid as well as other reactive oxygen species. This enzyme plays a significant role in inflammatory processes. In view of the observed associations between depression and such inflammatory processes, as well as of the reports that confirm the presence of oxidative stress in depression, this study was designed to assess the correlation, if any, between the single nucleotide polymorphism G-463A of the MPO gene and the risk of recurrent depressive disorders (DD).

METHODS

The study was carried out in a group of 149 patients with recurrent DD and 149 healthy control subjects. Genotyping was performed by PCR/restriction fragment length polymorphism.

RESULTS

A comparison between healthy controls and depressive patients showed a statistically significant difference in genotype distribution and allele frequency in the studied groups. Genotype distribution and allele frequency did not correlate with clinical variables of the patients.

CONCLUSION

The obtained results of the study allow us to draw a cautious conclusion about the role of the analysed G-463A MPO polymorphism in recurrent DD development, which, however, requires eventual confirmation in further studies.